1 min read

Zettelkasten Note Types

Related: Zettelkasten, Note Taking


Usually, Zettelkasten implies a set of certain note types serving specific purposes.

The most common types are:

  • fleeting
  • permanent
  • literature
  • reference
  • index notes

Fleeting Notes

Fleeting notes are used as quick drafts and "ideas inbox".

Permanent Notes

Permanent are atomic units of knowledge work. Notes that are sometimes referred to as Evergreen Notes

Literature Notes

Literature notes are used for information coming from 3rd party sources, like books and articles in processed form.

Reference Notes

Reference notes are links to the pieces of information contained in 3rd party sources.

Index Notes

Index - are sometimes called "map of content" notes. Outlines or tables of contents that contain collections of links to related notes.

*Usually, zettelkasten folks have their own set of note types according to their preferences.

The key takeaway here is to know where the piece of information has come from and not confuse your own ideas and 3rd party.*

In my zettelkasten I use the the following note types: My Zettelkasten Note Types